A new era dawns with Ariana Grande’s latest album, “Eternal Sunshine,” marking her seventh studio release after a four-year hiatus.
Exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, Grande’s musical journey takes a surprising turn, infusing ’90s house music into her signature pop style.
Lead single “Yes, And?” sets the stage for this evolution, blending catchy hooks with empowering lyrics reminiscent of Madonna’s “Vogue” and Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way.” While lacking Grande’s trademark vocal acrobatics, the track lays the foundation for the album’s exploration of different genres and emotions.
Tracks like “Belt” showcase Grande’s vocal prowess over funky disco beats, while “Don’t Wanna Break Up” delves into the aftermath of her divorce from Dalton Gomez. The album’s diverse soundscapes, from ’00s R&B to Euro-pop, reflect Grande’s multifaceted experiences, including the loss of Mac Miller and the Manchester terrorist attack.
Despite occasional missteps, such as overly explanatory interludes, Grande’s authenticity shines through, with highlights like “Ordinary Things,” featuring a recording of her grandmother. Inspired by the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” Grande’s album navigates the complexities of love and memory, inviting listeners to explore their own emotional depths.